Medical Vs. Recreational Cannabis: What’s The Difference?
The Real Differences Between Recreational And Medical Cannabis
There has been a huge influx of medical cannabis users recently. Medical cannabis is used by patients to relieve many symptoms and medical issues. Now, more states are legalizing the use of recreational cannabis, but what is the difference between the two? As the industry develops at such a fast pace, it is easy for there to be a disconnect. Wildfire, LLC takes pride in keeping our customers educated on all things cannabis. We work hard to ensure all of your questions are accurately answered. This blog will discuss certain aspects of medical cannabis, as well as what is different about adult-use cannabis.
CBD & THC Levels May Vary
One of the main differences between rec weed and medical cannabis is the variation in Cannabidol (CBD) and Tetracannabinol (THC) content. THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis, causing its users to feel high. THC is still medically beneficial, but not all patients who aim to use cannabis for its medicinal benefits want the psychoactive effects associated with THC. CBD provides exceptional medical benefits without the high. If you’re interested in trying medical cannabis, aim for a strain with a higher CBD ratio. Higher levels of CBD in medical cannabis has been proven to have anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-psychotic, anti-oxidant, and anti-anxiety properties. Some popular high-CBD strains are ACDC, Harlequin, and Charlotte’s Webb.
Quality
In most cases, there is an obvious difference in quality between medical cannabis and recreational cannabis. The growing process remains the same for both, however differences begin to arise during production and cultivation. Recreational cannabis will undergo a strict and controlled analysis before it is available for public consumption. In most situations, recreational cannabis is grown in a controlled environment indoors to ensure quality control and state regulations. Medical cannabis can be grown indoors or outdoors, and does not undergo a strict regulation process. We are a recreational storefront here at WildFire, and we take great pride in the quality and safety of our products. Whether recreational or medicinal, Maine cannabis cultivators put the customer first!
Legal Issues
In Maine, recreational and medical sales must come out of different buildings, unless a company decides to change their license. For medical use, individuals 18 years or older may obtain their medical cannabis card with a qualifying condition, and possess up to 2.5 ounces of a combination of cannabis flower, concentrates (no more than five grams), or products. What is different about adult-use cannabis, is that you must be 21 years or older to purchase it. Recreational users may carry the same amount as medical patients.
Access And Availability
Access is solely based on the legalities within your state. In Maine, we are lucky enough to have both medical and recreational cannabis legalized. If you are 18 or older and have a qualifying condition, you are eligible to obtain your medical cannabis card in the state of Maine. If you are 21 and older, you can purchase rec weed from any recreational storefront in the state. For medical patients, there is availability on nearly every street corner. Luckily, with popularity and demand, adult-use storefronts are opening all over the state, making recreational cannabis more available than ever.
Stay In The Know
We know the laws and regulations regarding medical and adult-use cannabis are always changing. At WildFire, it is our responsibility to ensure our customers are receiving accurate information regarding all things cannabis. To learn more about the differences between medical and adult-use cannabis, please visit the Office of Marijuana Policy.